"Fire News in the NW and Beyond"

Rail Fire | Oregon | August 21, 2016

The Rail Fire originally started on July 31st at 1430 (2:30pm) by an unknown cause.

Rail Fire (Courtesy: Inciweb)

Location

The Rail Fire began on the Wallowa-Whitman NF, is burning approximately 5 miles West of Unity, OR.

Size – Containment Status

32,530 acres – 45% contained.

Fire Fuels

Bug-killed lodge pole pine stands with a large standing dead and down component throughout the fire area.

Current Fire Conditions

The majority of the fuel in this area is mixed conifer with dead lodgepole. Portions of this area are part of the 2002 Monument fire.

Moderate fire behavior with group torching, single tree torching and wind-driven runs.

Damage Assessment

0 structures lost reported.

Cost-To-Date

$19.3 Million.

EVACUATIONS

Level 1 Evacuation

A Level-1 Pre-Evacuation Advisory has been issued by Grant County for the area of Summit Rock, Elk Creek Campground and the Hunters Creek area.

The area extends from Summit Prairie Road, east to the Grant County line and south from the Grant County line three miles to Tub Springs. This was initiated per county policy because the fire is within five miles of the closest residence.

In Grant County, Level 1 is a Pre-evacuation advisory used primarily in slow-moving events. At this level, residents are made aware that danger exists and encouraged to monitor the local news outlets for information. Residents with special needs or those with pets or livestock should take note and make preparations for relocation.